I’m thinking about converting my 1980 Carrera SS7M to single outboard. I asked this question over at Scream and fly but only got one response . I need more info . I’m sure most of you guys are familier with the Carrera. It’s the same / similar bottom to a 24 straight bottom Superboat . I figured you guys would have the most experience with a single outboard on this hull . From what I’ve read the Carrera is probably 1000lbs+ heavier than a superboat due to the raised deck and heavy layup . After a little research the 24 superboat guys run about 12-17” setback and propshaft 2-3” below bottom? I’m thinking about a 2002ish 3.0 liter 250 efi Mercury as the Hp can be upgraded without going too deep into the engine .Should I be looking for a 20” motor ? 25”? I’m trying to keep cost low , any recommendations for an engine jackplate / bracket ? I’m guessing with 250 hp I might get about 50 mph , good enough for a couple seasons . I just don’t know where to start as far as an engine bracket and shaft length . I’m thinking being an I/O boat with no motorwell I need a certain about of setback just for the engine to fit and turn . Thanks for any info .

Maybe consider a stainless marine bracket or similar with or without a swim platform give you a little set back ultimately you can decide whatever you want regarding 20 or 25 inch and place the bracket accordingly not sure how much dead rise do you have on that boat but I think a 20 inch should work fine. Another option is to add a jack plate gives you a little flexibility for performance/beaching the boat etc
Need lots of pictures!!

It has a 24 degree deadrise . Same lower hull as a 24 pantera or non step 24 superboat . I figured superboat owners had the most experience with a single outboard on the 24x7 hull . It may not be apples to apples as far as the setup because of the weigh difference . I just wanted a starting point .

Are you going to keep it a single or go twin eventually?

If single I’d go 24” back, if going to twins, I’d do 20”.

A 20” motor will put the powerhead in water coming off plane, and the bracket will move w/where you mount the motor.
As in, a 25” motor will put the bracket 5” higher than a 20.
W/a platform you’ll want it above water line of course.

Im on my 3rd twin O/B vee and always use a bracket w/platform and integral floatation box.
The box on my twin bracket equals 340 lbs buoyancy/flotation.



Yrs ago there was a 24’ Carerra I/O converted to twin O/B.
Ran good. I almost bought it.

Great point about the engine getting swamped when coming off plane . I’ll think I’ll go with a 25” for sure . It will probably be easier to find a 25” 3.0 Mercury anyway . I would be happy to get a solid 50mph , I just hope it’s not a total dog with 1 outboard. The engine I get will most likely not have a low water pickup , maybe start with propshaft 3-4” below the bottom?